220 Athletics Best Season By Par Men’s golf team made a number of “firsts in Harding history” in their spring 2024 season. In spring 2024, both the men’s and women’s golf teams made it to the regional tournament, and the Men’s team went on to play in Nationals for the second consecutive year and in program history. For the first time in Harding history, junior Daniel Stayvok won the conference championship. Stayvok emphasized teamwork over individual praise. “Beyond the accomplishments, what stood out the most was our support for one another,” Stayvok said. “No matter the circumstances, we always had each other’s backs, which made our success even more meaningful.” Senior Sam Tandy surpassed the previous record for the most birdies in a single season with 142. “Beyond his performance, he was a true leader— both spiritually and competitively,” Stayvok said. “His leadership played a huge role in guiding us to nationals.” Graduate Golf Assistant Leo Maciejek played on the team in both years they made it to the nationals. He brought his personal experience and success into coaching. “Being part of the team that made nationals twice, I think I can bring the necessary motivation to practice and work hard for a common goal,” Maciejek said. “I’ll never ask [the golf team] to do anything I didn’t do, and I try to bring some creative ideas to practice that make it more fun and also to get that extra one percent.” Maciejek highlighted how much the team cares about golf and the success of their teammates. He mentioned sophomore Jose Peralta for his special adoration for the sport. “There is no one on the planet that cares more about Golf than him,” Maciejek said. “He practices harder than anyone that I have ever seen and rewarded himself at the Shadow Creek Invitational with his first Individual Win.” TICKET PUNCHED Men’s golf team pose with “Ticket Punched” ticket as a team. The team played in nationals for the second consecutive year. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stayvok The team grew close despite drastically different backgrounds. The men’s team had players from seven different countries and three different continents. “That international mix brought different perspectives and playing styles, making us a stronger and more wellrounded team,” Stayvok said. Athletic Director and Head Golf Coach Jeff Morgan held great pride for the team and was encouraged to see what they did next. “Both teams have great young men and women, on and off the course,” Morgan said. “There is a good confidence for the spring season coming off of what they were able to accomplish last year.“ In March 2025, both teams were ranked the highest that they have ever been in program history. Written by Randi Tubbs
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